Siaya Governor James Orengo has challenged President William Ruto to demonstrate genuine commitment to the Luo community and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) by making what he described as an “irresistible offer” to the party.
Speaking in Alego Usonga Constituency during a certified seeds distribution exercise, Orengo said the president should openly state his intentions if he truly wants closer cooperation with ODM.
“If President Ruto really loves the Luo community and ODM, let him not prevaricate. Let him come out clearly and give an offer we cannot refuse as ODM. Let him give us an offer that we cannot refuse,” Orengo said.
The governor also criticised the implementation of the 10-point agenda signed between President Ruto and the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in 2025, arguing that key commitments under the agreement have yet to be fulfilled.
According to Orengo, issues such as abductions, extrajudicial killings, interference with public gatherings and the rising cost of living remain unresolved despite the agreement.
“It’s as clear as daylight; abductions have continued. Extrajudicial killings have continued,” he said.
“The government has interfered with public meetings like the meetings we as Linda Mwananchi have been holding everywhere we have gone. We have met goons. The cost of living is still up,” he added.
Orengo insisted that the 10-point agenda must be implemented immediately, stressing that justice for victims of abductions and killings, as well as youth employment and women’s inclusion in governance, should not be delayed.
“The 10-point agenda must be actualized now. And if it was being implemented, we don’t need to be told that it has been implemented; it should be self-evident,” he said.
“Victims of abduction and extrajudicial killing must get their right, they must get justice, and must get compensation now.”
His remarks came shortly after President Ruto announced a 60-day extension of the mandate of a committee tasked with addressing issues arising from the agreement.
Speaking during a meeting with United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and ODM Members of Parliament, Ruto said the committee had requested additional time to complete its work.
“The committee requested only 60 days for them to conclude what they are doing. And I think it is only fair. They have done a great job; I think it is only fair that we extend by 60 days,” the president said.
According to Ruto, the committee formed on August 6, 2025, has made progress in identifying and profiling victims of past protests who are eligible for compensation.
“We have identified all the victims and profiled their names. We have made sure we have a comprehensive list. We went back all the way to 2017 to make sure all affected are captured,” he said.
The debate around the implementation of the 10-point agenda continues to shape political discourse within ODM and the broader national political landscape.
